How has Eliza Dushku helped shape the character of Echo?
WHEDON She really wants burlesque, and I keep forgetting to put that in… Eliza has things she is interested in and feels comfortable in. Sometimes I like to go to that place because I know she can knock it out of the park. Sometimes I like to go the opposite way, and take her out of her comfort zone, because that is the best thing you can do with an actor. The fact is, she shapes the role because she is very specific as a person. People don’t generally see how funny she can be, how elegant. She doesn’t always have to play the tough girl. Dollhouse deals with people manipulating emotions. Your upcoming film, Cabin in the Woods deals with people manipulating fear. Did one inspire the other? Is there something about these themes that really resonates with you? WHEDON The two pieces were conceived very far apart, but ended up [coming to fruition] at the same time, which is awkward because it does seem planned. The fact is that I am obsessed with it. People are constantly being manipulate
